Independence Day

We had a low-key 4th of July this year. We were supposed to have guests in for the weekend but they ended up arriving and leaving earlier than expected, so it was just the three of us celebrating our nation's independence. I must say, the long-weekend festivities just weren't the same as a new mom. Somehow "freedom" takes on a whole new meaning as the primary caregiver of a nursing, napping 8 month old. But we had fun enjoying having our house all to ourselves and recooping after a week with the cousins!
This is the third year in a row our little neighborhood has put on its own parade. Everyone is invited to participate by gathering together a few minutes before the official "start time." But we opted to watch instead. :) Basically it's just a group of people and pets all dressed in their patriotic best, walking, biking, riding, strollering, driving or golf carting down the street, waving at all their neighbors. It's a cute and fun addition to the day. Kind of like Jack. Speaking of whom, Lush Bucket loved all the attention. Their were ladies stopping to let him know how cute he was, fellow babies babbling as their parents pushed them by, and doggies eager to jump on mommy's lap and exchange kisses! Someone even threw us two pieces of candy! Unfortunately, it all ended too quickly. Poor Jack kept looking down the street to see if anyone else was going to walk by.
So here are a few pictures of what was likely our last 4th of July at The Beach...

Our youngest guest, 2-week old Rose.


And the neighborhood parade ...

And the parade's biggest fan taking it all in ...